Shows
Breaking the BlocksBreaking the Pattern: Finding Your Inherent WorthQuilter Vendulka Battais shares her healing journey from realizing that external validation (including winning awards) made her happy, but didn't bring her ultimate fulfillment, she still needed to find her own inner worth and peace. She explores how her upbringing in communist Czechoslovakia and ancestral patterns influenced her sense of self-worth and her creative approach to quilting.• Growing up during communism in the Czech Republic shaped Vendulka's resourcefulness and creativity• Moving to the UK at age 24 with English as her second language became an unexpected advantage in her quilting pattern instructions• Winning quilt competitions didn't bring...
2025-09-1357 minBreaking the BlocksBreaking Free: Healing Through Life's Toughest lessons (my own journey)Taking a break between Season 2 and Season 3 to reflect on the journey and lessons learned throughout Breaking the Blocks. Thousands of listeners have shared how these conversations about overcoming challenges have inspired their own growth paths.• Life inevitably brings pain, loss, and unexpected challenges – our growth comes from how we respond• Understanding our role in our own suffering is key to breaking unhealthy patterns• We cannot change others, only ourselves – even after 27 years of asking her husband to quit smoking• Change requires losing old identities and sometimes relationships that reinforce negative patterns• Finding inner peace ma...
2025-07-1823 min
Breaking the BlocksThe Art of Resilience: Mackenzie Thorpe's Creative JourneyMackenzie Thorpe shares his extraordinary journey from a dyslexic child in working-class Middlesbrough to a globally celebrated artist whose work touches hearts worldwide.• Born with an innate urge to draw on anything available—stones, cigarette packets, fireplace ashes• Struggled with undiagnosed dyslexia at school, describing himself as "word blind" rather than seeing jumbled letters• Found escape through art, developing a three-dimensional thinking ability that compensated for traditional learning challenges• Created his iconic square sheep series after a car accident in 1990, representing his family and his role as protector• Gained international recognition when Salvador Dali's forme...
2025-07-0556 min
Breaking the BlocksFinding Your True North When Life ShiftsJanet Clare joins Rachel to explore the journey of creative growth and authenticity in a world that often feels chaotic and judgmental. Together they reflect on how the pandemic reset their perspectives, helping them realize what truly matters in life and creative work.• Finding inner calm and creative peace even when the outside world feels unstable• Confronting the inner critic that asks "who am I to create?" and charging forward anyway• Understanding that creativity sits at the top of our needs pyramid, requiring all other needs to be met first• The powerful mindset shift of activ...
2025-06-2131 min
Breaking the BlocksBreaking Through: Art, Healing, and Redemption in Women's PrisonSarah Humphreys transforms lives teaching arts and crafts in a women's prison, helping incarcerated women rebuild their identities through creativity. Working with individuals who've experienced trauma and abuse, she creates a sensory sanctuary where women who arrive saying "I can't" leave as proud creators with newfound confidence and purpose.• Teaching in prison presents unique challenges with scissors and supplies requiring strict protocols• Around 75% of women in prison have mental health concerns and most have experienced childhood trauma• Sarah's classroom serves as a sensory haven with soft textiles, comforting scents, and supportive community• A professional shoplift...
2025-06-071h 05
Breaking the BlocksThe Art of ImperfectionRachel Pierman sits down with textile artist Judy Martin for a profound conversation about creativity, mortality, and finding healing through art. They explore the spiritual quality of handmade quilts and how creative work can become a sanctuary during difficult times.• Judy describes her childhood in rural Canada where solitude and art supplies fostered her inner creative world• The transition from painting to quilting as Judy raised her four children while maintaining her artistic practice• How quilting became therapeutic during periods of depression and global anxiety• The deeper meaning behind Judy's "perfectly imperfect" quilting philosophy • Jud...
2025-05-241h 08
Breaking the BlocksFinding Your Voice as a Full-Time Carer Requires Immense Inner StrengthResilience emerges as the central theme when textile artist Caz Holmes shares her journey as a full-time carer for her husband following his debilitating stroke. She offers profound insights into finding balance between caring for others and maintaining your own identity through creativity and connection.• Caz balances her renowned artistic career with caring for her husband Derek after his stroke in 2021• The stroke left Derek with left-side weakness, limited vision, and spatial awareness challenges• Creativity serves as healing for both carer and patient, providing focus and purpose• Maintaining your identity is crucial when transitioning from lif...
2025-05-1057 min
Sew Off Kilter PodcastGetting Wild with Crafty MonkiesIt’s a big episode, y’all—we’ve got our very first guest! 🎉 This week, Becca and Ian sit down with the fabulous Rachel Pierman, owner of Crafty Monkies and host of the Breaking the Blocks podcast. We dive into Rachel’s creative journey, from her start in the industry to building a global crafty community.We talk teaching, the magic of connecting with other makers, the ups and downs of creative careers, and of course—why quilting and community go hand in hand. There are laughs, a few heartfelt moments, and some seriously good insight from one of the...
2025-05-011h 02
Breaking the BlocksStitching Together Cultural Identities When You Don't Belong AnywhereDavey Powell shares his journey as a queer traveller, navigating the complexities of growing up in fairgrounds while knowing he was gay from a young age. Through therapy, sobriety, and quilting, he's found a way to unite his traveller heritage with his queer identity to become the authentic person he was always meant to be.• Growing up between two worlds - never "traveller enough" for the traveller community and too "traveller" for the outside world• Experiencing violence and fear on the fairgrounds, forcing him to develop a tough exterior that conflicted with his sensitive nature• Hiding...
2025-04-261h 06
Breaking the BlocksYou don't have to see the whole staircase, just the next step.Sarah Spencer takes us on a journey of transformation, from corporate employee to artist, radio host, and community activist while navigating major life transitions and personal growth.• Moving from Canada to Chicago represents a complete life reset• Transitioning from property appraiser to artist required sitting with uncomfortable feelings of identity loss• Meeting her husband at Burning Man led to love, marriage, and eventually motherhood• Postpartum anxiety pushed her toward therapy, which became a transformative force• Overcoming extreme fear of public speaking by trying stand-up comedy• Using privilege for community good rather than feeling guil...
2025-04-121h 32
Breaking the BlocksWhat happens when life's greatest challenges become your most powerful teachers?Leo Ransom shares his transformative journey from being in the wrong place at the wrong time to becoming an accomplished portrait quilter who channels his experiences of prejudice and hardship into creating meaningful art.• Started quilting at 16 and progressed from traditional to portrait quilting• Learned resilience after being arrested by association with drug dealers despite being innocent• Faces ongoing racial profiling and prejudice as a Black quilter in Texas• Developed a philosophy of patience and dignity when confronting discrimination• Found his voice through portrait quilting that captures subjects' essence• Married to a white man an...
2025-03-2948 min
Breaking the BlocksBreaking Cycles of Childhood TraumaBecca Shifflett shares her powerful journey from childhood abuse to becoming a successful YouTuber with a thriving community, revealing how she learned to shine her light after years of being taught to dim it.• Experiencing severe childhood trauma including physical and sexual abuse• Being removed from her parents at age 14 and placed into foster care• Learning to process trauma rather than compartmentalizing it • Finding healing through forgiveness without excusing harmful behavior• Discovering creativity and self-expression through sewing• Managing imposter syndrome while building a YouTube channel with 42,000+ subscribers• Breaking generational trauma cycles with her own da...
2025-03-151h 14
Breaking the BlocksGrief and Growth: Josh's Journey Beyond LossA poignant exploration of grief and healing unfolds as Josh Dunn shares his transformational journey following the loss of his mother. He discusses how creativity, particularly quilting, became a source of connection and solace in his life. The episode dives deep into personal stories and valuable lessons learned through navigating grief and toxic relationships.• Josh talks about his close relationship with his mom and the impact of her passing • The role of therapy in understanding and processing grief • How creativity, specifically quilting, became a medium for healing • Stories about making masks from his mother's fabric duri...
2025-03-011h 10
Breaking the BlocksThe Art of Healing: David's Journey Through AdversityDavid Owen Hastings' inspiring journey reveals how he transformed past trauma into a meaningful, creative life. He stresses the importance of embracing our experiences, seeking community support, and using creativity as a healing tool.• Discussion on David's challenging childhood and family dynamics • The significance of crafting as a coping mechanism • Insights into navigating life as a gay man during the AIDS epidemic • The power of creativity to foster joy and resilience • The role of community in personal healing and growth • Reflection on future aspirations and leaving a legacyFollow David on Instagram @dav...
2025-02-1553 min
Breaking the BlocksRediscovering Self in the Whirlwind of Literary Success with Matt EicheldingerIn this insightful episode, we engage with author Matt Eicheldinger, who returns to discuss the complexities of navigating success after achieving his dreams. With reflections on imposter syndrome, the joys of connecting with readers, and the importance of community, Matt emphasizes the significance of staying genuine through every stage of the creative journey. • Matt shares his experiences since becoming a bestselling author • He discusses ongoing struggles with imposter syndrome • Finding fulfillment in interactions with young readers • The challenges of isolation in a writer's career • Importance of maintaining mental health and balance • Matt's future aspirations...
2025-02-011h 21
Breaking the BlocksEmbracing Vulnerability and Discovering Self-Worth with Trudi WoodThis episode explores the transformative journey of resilience, creativity, and self-discovery through the experiences of Trudi Wood. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own emotional challenges and the importance of community and forgiveness in the healing process. • Trudi has shares her unexpected transition from the Air Force to quilting • Discussion on the impacts of solitude and loneliness • The recognition of self-sabotaging behaviors • Insights into the complexities of forgiveness • The significance of faith and community in healing • Encouragement to practice kindness and self-compassion • The importance of making conscious choices for personal growthWant to reach ou...
2025-01-1850 min
Breaking the BlocksFrom Firefighter to Quilter: Brandy Maslowski's Journey of Resilience and HealingBrandy Maslowski's journey from firefighter to quilter illuminates the complexities of trauma and resilience. She shares her experiences with discrimination, PTSD, and ultimately, how creativity became her healing mechanism, inspiring others to recognize the strength within their own stories.• Brandy's background as a firefighter with familial ties to the profession • The discrimination experienced as a woman in a male-dominated field • Impact of workplace toxicity on mental health and the onset of complex PTSD • Deciding to leave her firefighting career for personal well-being • The transition to quilting as a form of healing and self-expression • Insights...
2025-01-041h 04
The Quilter on Fire PodcastQOF Episode 187 - Rachel Pierman of Crafty MonkiesGet ready to be inspired by the founder of CraftyMonkies! From a successful TV career that suddenly came to a halt to a thriving retreat and online event business bringing crafters together, this educational event planner has found her niche. I am looking forward to this episode with Rachel Pierman of Crafty Monkies! Crafty Monkies features live interactive Zoom classes, a monthly VIP club, on-demand videos and in-person retreats in the UK and the USA. Rachel connects teachers from around the world with eager learners. She also launched her podcast "Breaking the Blocks" in February 2024, sharing stories...
2024-12-241h 37
Breaking the BlocksFrom Grief to Growth: Nicole Leth on Affirmations, Compassion, and Creative HealingAfter experiencing the profound pain of losing a loved one to suicide, Nicole Leth discovered the power of affirmations as a lifeline to healing. Her journey from personal tragedy to creating My Affirmation Project is a testament to resilience and creativity. Nicole shares how she transformed her grief into a mission of compassion, spreading messages of self-love and hope through various mediums like graffiti, quilts, and billboards. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest times, creativity can light the way to healing.Nicole's poignant reflections on navigating addiction and trauma with empathy invite...
2024-12-211h 03
Breaking the BlocksEmpathy and Inclusion: Ian Garland's Creative Journey and Advocacy for ChangeJoin us on Breaking the Blocks as Rachel Pierman welcomes Ian Garland, a charismatic quilter with a thriving YouTube community and a passion for fostering understanding through creativity. Ian shares his journey from Texas to Washington, seeking safer and more inclusive spaces for the LGBTQ community. Alongside his new podcast, Sew Off Kilter, co-hosted with Sew Becca, Ian explores the power of art to unite people and nurture personal growth, revealing how his own experiences in crafting have shaped his beliefs and relationships.Our conversation takes a thoughtful turn as Ian delves into the unique challenges faced...
2024-12-0759 min
Breaking the BlocksArtistic Transformation: Zak Foster on Quilting, Community, and Ancestral ReflectionJoin me for an inspiring conversation with Zak Foster, a trailblazer in the artistic quilting community, whose journey from a high school Spanish teacher to a full-time artist and podcaster is nothing short of transformative. Zak shares the pivotal moments during the pandemic that led him to embrace his passion and create the Quilty Nook, a vibrant community for quilters. Through our discussion, we uncover how Zak uses his art not just for expression, but as a force for community building and social change, highlighting the courage required to leave a conventional career path in pursuit of one's passion.
2024-11-231h 13
Breaking the BlocksCrafting Calm: Lucy Brennan on Creativity, Self-Worth, and Embracing ChangeCrafting holds a meditative power, a truth that Lucy Brennan, also known as @CharmAboutYou (and she does a Saturday Night Craftalong on Instagram). embodies in her life journey. As she shares her story, we learn how the art of crafting, passed down from her grandmother and mother, became her refuge from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Balancing a full-time job and creative passions, Lucy reflects on how crafting has found its way back into the hearts of a younger generation, offering a peaceful counterbalance to modern-day stress.Our conversation takes a heartfelt turn as we...
2024-11-1459 min
Breaking the BlocksThe Art of Letting Go. Dee Bushrod Embraces ChangeEver felt trapped by the roles others expect you to play? Quilter Dee Bushrod of @pixelquilts knows that feeling all too well. Renowned for her intricate pixel quilts, Dee takes us through her emotional journey of overcoming depression, breaking free from people-pleasing habits, and bravely stepping away from a structured religious environment to embrace an authentic self. Listen as she recounts the touching story of attempting to gift a pixel quilt of the Queen during her Platinum Jubilee, a project that was met with an unexpected twist, highlighting the unexpected paths authenticity can lead us down.Quilting...
2024-10-261h 11
Breaking the BlocksFrom Struggle to Strength: Chris Marchini's Inspiring Quilting JourneyWhat if embracing your true identity could unlock a world of healing and self-discovery? Join us in this heartfelt episode of Breaking the Blocks as we sit down with the remarkable Chris Marchini, an inspiring quilter whose personal journey is nothing short of transformative. Chris courageously opens up about his struggles with severe depression and suicidal tendencies, offering a beacon of hope to those facing similar battles. He shares the intimate details and the profound impact of coming out as gay while married, all during a tumultuous chapter in his life.Navigating the turbulent waters of his...
2024-10-121h 08
Breaking the BlocksNavigating Step-Parenting and Personal Growth with Amanda OrosHave you ever wondered how a passion for quilting can become a powerful tool for self-discovery and healing? Join me as I chat with Amanda Oros, the dynamic host of "Not Your Granny's Quilt Show." Amanda and I share our personal journeys as step-parents, highlighting the emotional challenges and growth that come with it. We also explore the deeper meaning of community within the quilting world, breaking stereotypes and emphasizing the importance of creativity in overcoming life's hurdles.Our conversation takes a heartfelt turn as we discuss the journey of healing through self-trust, especially when confronting deeply...
2024-09-2856 min
Not Your Granny's Quilt ShowMeet Rachel Pierman of Crafty Monkies! - Ep. 118After training at the prestigious, Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, Rachel acted for a while but then through a mutual friend found out about a TV presenting gig, and that was that! Off she went in search of a new career. After a successful run of broadcast television jobs and hosting live events, her last TV presenting gig was for a craft channel working with lots of different artists selling their products. When this came to an end, it was a natural transition for media and the world of craft to combine when Rachel started CraftyMonkies, a place where...
2024-09-161h 39
Breaking the BlocksSustainable Quilting and Emotional Healing: Sherri Lynn Wood's Creative JourneyJoin us for an inspiring kick-off to season two of "Breaking the Blocks" with your host, Rachel Pierman. This episode features a heartfelt conversation with seasoned quilter Sherri Lynn Wood, who shares her journey from traditional quilting to sustainable practices. Sherri Lynn's dedication to using second-hand fabrics is not just an ecological choice but also a deeply personal one, driven by the desire to create meaningful connections through fabric and personal stories. We also touch on Sherri Lynn's resilience in overcoming life blocks, like the loss of her mother at a young age, reminding listeners that they are not...
2024-09-1452 min
Breaking the BlocksQuilting Emotions: Lucy Engles on Art, Therapy, and Creative ResilienceWhat if your quilt could capture a century of emotions? In this spellbinding episode of Breaking the Blocks, we sit down with the talented quilter and artist, Lucy Engles, to discuss the metamorphosis of her artistic style and the personal journey behind it. Lucy reveals the importance of saying no to regain energy and headspace, and how the pandemic reshaped her creative and professional life. We also explore the intricate balance of maintaining a studio and the pressure that comes with growing a business, offering listeners a fresh perspective on the natural evolution of art over a decade.
2024-07-2734 min